Health Library

Solifenacin (By mouth)

Solifenacin Succinate (soe-li-FEN-a-sin SUX-i-nate)

Treats bladder problems, including neurogenic detrusor overactivity and symptoms of an overactive bladder.

Brand Name(s):

VESIcare, VESIcare LS

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Tablet

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
• Oral liquid:
  • Shake the bottle well just before each use.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
  • Take this medicine followed by water or milk. Do not take it at the same with food or other drinks, as it may cause a bitter taste.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose:
  • Oral liquid: If you miss a dose and it is less than 12 hours from your regular schedule, take the dose as soon as you can. If you miss a dose and it is more than 12 hours, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
  • Tablets: If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Dispose any unused oral liquid 28 days after first opening the bottle.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how solifenacin works. Tell your doctor if you are using the following:
  • Digoxin, ketoconazole
  • Birth control pills (including ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel)
  • Blood thinner (including warfarin)
  • Medicine that changes heart rhythm

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, bladder blockage, controlled narrow-angle glaucoma, or stomach or bowel problems (including constipation), or a history of heart rhythm problems (including QT prolongation).
• This medicine may make you dizzy, drowsy, or cause blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• This medicine may make you sweat less, causing your body temperature to increase. Use extra care not to become overheated during exercise or hot weather while you are taking this medicine, since overheating may cause heat stroke.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bloody or cloudy urine, change in how much or how often you urinate, difficult or painful urination
• Blurred vision, confusion, drowsiness, headache
• Constipation that lasts for 3 days or longer, stomach pain
• Fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Decreased sweating, dry mouth, skin, or eyes
• Nausea, stomach upset

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024